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Jun 11, 2013

Breaking Down The Rays First Round Pick Nick Ciuffo

Fans of the Rays know by now that in order for this team to compete for the World Series, they need to draft well. That is why last week’s draft was so important for the franchise, as they continue to pour a lot of resources into scouting. There is plenty to love about Nick Ciuffo, and the club decided to take the high school catcher with their first round pick. What does the future hold for the South Carolina native?
First and foremost, drafting a catcher can be risky, but Ciuffo has the bat, the glove and the athleticism to be a solid pick. He is most known for his defense and arm right now, but he projects as a solid hitter who could provide value at the plate as well.

Most high school catchers are not nearly as disciplined and as skilled receiving the ball as he is. He already does a great job framing the ball and calling a game, and those skills are harder to teach to youngsters. His blocking is above average, but should get better when he actually starts playing in the system.
Ciuffo’s arm is the one tool that really sets him apart. He has great footwork, a quick release and it comes easy for him. Most scouts give his arm a perfect grade, and he has the chance to have one of the best arms of his era behind the dish. All of this will be getting fantasy baseball players excited about his prospects, but he isn't a finished product yet.

His hitting is slightly ahead of schedule, but it is what will keep him in the minors until probably 2017. For one, he is just an 18 year old kid who needs to get repetitions at the pro level. Since he is a catcher, it will take him a longer time to get through the system. It is hard to truly project just how good he will be, but many felt he was the best long-term prospect at his position in the draft. The Rays have lacked a talented homegrown catcher in their system, so he could be the answer down the road.